Uganda to Host International Conference on AI, Education, and Future Skills

Uganda is set to host the second International Conference on Curriculum Development next week, with a significant focus on how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the job market and the skills required for the future. The event, scheduled for August 20 and 21 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, will convene over 700 education experts, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners from Uganda, across Africa, and internationally.

The conference, organized by the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), aims to critically examine the relevance of current curricula in preparing students for the evolving demands of the workplace. Dr. Richard Irumba, chairperson of the organizing committee, highlighted that interactive panel discussions will directly address whether the implemented curricula adequately equip learners for the labor market. "We shall have interactive panel discussions examining whether the curricula we develop and implement in the country is relevant for the workplace, for the labour market," Irumba stated.

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We shall have interactive panel discussions examining whether the curricula we develop and implement in the country is relevant for the workplace, for the labour market.

Keynote presentations from international experts and research presentations will be featured, alongside exhibitions and breakout sessions. Organizers received 130 papers, accepting 77 after a rigorous peer-review process, underscoring a strong interest in curriculum development and the need for shared experiences. Professor George Openjuru, chairperson of the NCDC Governing Council, emphasized that curriculum development must align with Uganda's national aspirations while adapting to global changes, directly impacting the quality of citizens and innovators.

Dr. Patrice Ssembirige, acting director of NCDC, stressed the need to move beyond rote memorization. He stated that education must equip learners with critical thinking and creativity to navigate the changing global economy. The conference's discussions are also linked to Uganda's Fourth National Development Plan, which prioritizes human capital development across all life stages.

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Curriculum development is not only about education; it's fundamental to the society's social development.